The Visit Review: Creepy Grandparents, Found Footage Fun

A Welcome Return to Form

After a string of critical missteps, M. Night Shyamalan made a bold declaration with The Visit: he can still craft genuinely good movies. This found-footage horror-thriller, centered on two siblings documenting a week with their estranged grandparents, feels like a deliberate attempt to reconnect with the director's earlier, more intimate storytelling. It’s a gamble, especially with its "ham sandwich budget," but it largely pays off, proving that sometimes, smaller stakes yield bigger rewards.

Child Stars and Chilling Moments

The heart of The Visit lies with its young leads, Olivia DeJonge as aspiring filmmaker Becca and Ed Oxenbould as her rap-loving brother, Tyler. Casting child actors in a film designed to carry significant emotional weight and comedic relief is a daring move, yet both deliver impressive performances. Ed Oxenbould, in particular, shines as the comedic anchor, often providing much-needed levity. Olivia DeJonge also tackles a "power scene" with remarkable conviction, leaving a lasting impression.

The horror elements, primarily driven by the increasingly bizarre behavior of Deanna Dunagan's Nana and Peter McRobbie's Pop Pop, certainly raise the hairs on the back of your neck. There are moments of genuine creepiness, especially when Nana starts "going a little bananas" after sundown. Jump scares are present, but the film's true unsettling nature comes from the psychological dread of being trapped with two unpredictable, elderly strangers.

Tonal Twists and Pacing Puzzles

While the performances are strong and the premise intriguing, The Visit isn't without its quirks. The film frequently grapples with tonal conflicts, often veering between unsettling horror and outright comedy. There are instances where a genuinely creepy scene is immediately undercut by a humorous remark from Tyler, breaking the tension at crucial moments. While some of this comedic relief is welcome, at times it feels misplaced, preventing the horror from fully landing its punch.

Additionally, the pacing can feel a bit drawn out in the middle section. There are stretches where the narrative seems to drag, leaving audiences wondering if the film will ever truly get to its point. While the eventual payoff is satisfying, the journey there occasionally tests patience, especially when the scares aren't consistently hitting their mark.

A Passion Project Pays Off

M. Night Shyamalan's decision to embrace the found-footage format for The Visit is a smart one. It not only provides a logical framework for the narrative but also allows for a more intimate, claustrophobic atmosphere that suits the story. This feels less like a studio assignment and more like a passion project, a filmmaker doing a movie because he genuinely wants to. This creative freedom is palpable, allowing M. Night Shyamalan to explore his signature blend of suspense and character-driven drama without the pressures of a blockbuster budget.

The Final Verdict

The Visit is a surprisingly enjoyable ride that, despite its tonal inconsistencies and occasional pacing issues, delivers a unique blend of scares and laughs. The performances from the young cast and the unsettling presence of the grandparents carry the film, making it a worthwhile watch. It's a clear signal that M. Night Shyamalan is back in his element, proving that sometimes, going small can lead to big creative victories. For those who appreciate a horror film with a dark sense of humor and a compelling mystery, this visit is highly recommended.